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Just 60 days ago when Morgan Rogers was standing on the Sunderland turf, seeming perplexed while Unai Emery scolded him over not reading a through-ball. During that period, as the club endured a six-game winless run, doubts remained whether Rogers' form were a sign or the reason of the team's broader struggles.

“As Rogers swept in his second… Emery ripped off his thick padded coat, spread his arms and roared.”

In the latest match, though, the manager's outburst was entirely decidedly more positive. As the England international curled home his brace-sealing goal to reclaim Villa's lead, the boss ripped off his jacket, opened his arms and bellowed. The team continued to a 10th successive win and after failing to win their opening six fixtures, find themselves just three points adrift of the leaders Arsenal.

Is Aston Villa Genuine Title Contenders?

This is an exceptionally difficult query to address. History, the traditional standing of the club, indicates otherwise. Additionally, they have not been completely commanding in many games, despite the fact the victories have piled up.

As per the data, on just two occasions have Villa posted an xG more than 0.5 greater than the opposition. For a side who have put together 10 in a row, the Villans seem weirdly vulnerable – yet at the moment the margins are going in their favour.

The Winning Formula

Their recent policy seems to be to engage in a shootout with an opponent and then rely on Rogers to rescue them with a couple of clinical strikes. It happened against Leeds, it transpired in London, and once more against Manchester United.

Rogers' first goal came from an exquisite effort, curled precisely inside the post from a wide position. His brace-completing goal was essentially a slight scruffier version of the opener as he seized on a pass from Watkins.

“Rogers’ right foot is now akin to Robben’s legendary left: forewarned does not mean forearmed, and stopping him is another matter entirely.”

How Long Can This Continue?

Reason suggests otherwise. In the recent win, Manchester United had more efforts and more shots on target. The team has secured their last eight victories by just one goal. They have allowed goals in all except one of those matches.

A reversion to average might be the greatest opponent the club will encounter over the coming weeks. The forward, surely, will not continue to thrashing the ball into the net's top corner week in, week out.

A Case for Belief

Could it be an alternative path where, instead of luck running out, the team's displays improve to justify the wins. Important figures may yet find their top level.

• The centre-forward may begin to scoring again.
• The winger might become the force he was in Germany.
• The injured centre-backs are set to regain fitness, fortifying an occasionally vulnerable backline.

Perhaps there is in that the potential of a genuine bid, yet it seems unlikely can continue to depend solely on a single individual.

Enjoying the Ride

But then, this was unforeseen. It seemed improbable the team would be in the top three for the holidays. And without a doubt two months ago, no one envisioned the young forward by the end of the year would be spearheading a title charge and appearing as a vital Three Lions star.

This remarkable period is to be savoured for the very reason that it feels so unlikely. As Rogers faced the home supporters after the match orchestrating the applause, it was clear to be loving the experience. A feeling he has rightly earned. Such periods do not happen often and ought to be celebrated.